Parliament approves Nabbanja as Prime Minister

KAMPALA - Parliament has approved Robinah Nabbanja, the Woman MP for Kakumiro District, as Prime Minister and Leader of Government Business for the 2026–2031 term.

The motion seeking Parliament’s approval was moved by Lira City Woman MP Jane Ruth Aceng of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who said Nabbanja met all the constitutional requirements for appointment as Prime Minister.

Aceng told Parliament that Nabbanja is a Ugandan citizen by birth, born in 1969, and a registered voter in Kakumiro. She said Nabbanja completed Advanced Level education and is currently pursuing a PhD (doctorate) at Nkumba University.

She holds a Masters of Arts degree, a bachelor’s degree and several professional certificates.

Aceng told Parliament that Nabbanja is a Ugandan citizen by birth, born in 1969, and a registered voter in Kakumiro. She said Nabbanja completed Advanced Level education and is currently pursuing a PhD (doctorate) at Nkumba University. (Credit: Maria Wamala)

“She has adequate experience for the office, having served in both local and central government,” Aceng said. Aceng listed Nabbanja’s previous positions as State Minister for Health, Parliamentary Commissioner, Member of Parliament since 2011, Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for 10 years, Deputy RDC and district councillor.

“She has demonstrated exemplary performance in her role. She has overseen the passage of 82 percent of Bills, ensured 99 percent response to Prime Minister’s Question Time, 97 percent response to oral questions and submission of 100 percent of Treasury memoranda,” Aceng said.

Aceng praised Nabbanja for becoming the first woman to serve as Prime Minister, saying she had gained international recognition for her leadership.

“She supported COVID-19 initiatives, coordinated poverty reduction programmes such as the Parish Development Model, handled natural disaster interventions and helped secure financial assistance for disaster-prone districts. She is a hands-on mobiliser with a grassroots-oriented approach,” Aceng said.

Under Article 108A of the Constitution, the Prime Minister is appointed by the President with the approval of Parliament by a simple majority vote.

Nakawa Division East MP Frederick Ruhindi (NRM) described Nabbanja as emotionally intelligent and capable of handling public affairs. (Credit: Maria Wamala)

The Prime Minister serves as Leader of Government Business in Parliament and is responsible for coordinating and implementing government policies across ministries, departments and public institutions.

Nakawa Division East MP Frederick Ruhindi (NRM) described Nabbanja as emotionally intelligent and capable of handling public affairs.

Kalungu County West Joseph Ssewungu from the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) commended Nabbanja for her previous service, but urged her to ensure ministers regularly attend parliamentary sittings and government business.

Obongi County Hassan Fungaroo of Forum for Democratic Change said the office of Prime Minister required continuity in leadership and programmes initiated by previous office holders.

“Offices are continuous. She has helped to ensure roads in our area are being worked on,” Fungaroo said.

Jinja South East MP Paul Mwiru (NUP) urged the Prime Minister to closely supervise the use of public resources under her office. Mwiru noted that government relief items, including iron sheets, should reach intended beneficiaries with proper structures in place.